EU Creates New Defense Pact to Reduce Dependence on US

 

The EU on Nov.13 officially launched a new era in defense cooperation with a program of joint military investment in equipment, research and development, known as permanent structured cooperation, or PESCO. Foreign and defense ministers gathered at a signing ceremony in Brussels to represent 23 EU governments joining the pact, which is to become legally binding when signed by heads of state at EU summit in mid-December. With so many ministers signing, approval seems a given. From now on, the EU will have a more coherent role in tackling international crises, while reducing the reliance on the United States.

Fresh Wind Down the Silk Road (I)

BERLIN/TASHKENT (Own report) – To secure its influence in Central Asia in rivalry to Russia and China, Berlin is taking new initiatives toward Uzbekistan, the most populous country in the region. Among the five post-Soviet Central Asian countries, Uzbekistan has been Germany’s key partner for the past 25 years, even hosting a Bundeswehr base over an extended period of time. Now the German government seeks to reinforce it position in Uzbekistan by expanding economic relations. Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, in office since one year, is initiating a neo-liberal policy in his country. At the same time, Russia’s rise in influence in the economic and military sectors, alongside China’s greatly enhanced economic advances has put Germany under pressure. If Germany does not want to lose ground in Central Asia, it must act quickly.

EU Establishes Military Wing

German led, German dominated… and it’s now about to get its first taste of real military training throughout Africa.

 

[Shutterstock]

 

Here comes the European Union Army.

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The EU’s Soviet sounding – the name doesn’t give away its real purpose – Military Planning and Conduct Capabailities (MPCC) unit has just been set up for training missions in Somalia, Mali, the Central African Republic, some of the world’s most dangerous conflict zones.

The unit was created in rapid time, having only been sanctioned at discreet EU Council meeting in December.

EU army? Brussels ‘to set up NEW MILITARY UNIT’ amid growing tensions in Europe

The EU is set to move closer towards military integration (Getty)

 

BRUSSELS bureaucrats are said to be planning to set up a new military unit in a bid to increase greater defence cooperation, according to diplomats.

The division, known as the Military Planning and Conduct Capabilities (MPCC) unit, could be responsible for the EU training missions in African countries including Somalia, Mali and Central African Republic.

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There are early suggestion the MPCC is set to be based in Brussels, the same location as the EU Military Staff (EUMS), who provide military expertise to EU members.